Cadet Class Update
by Peter Collyer 12 Feb 2014 17:55 GMT
8-9 February 2014
Nick Craig Cadet coaching at Frensham © Andy Shorrock
The recent weather has not deterred intrepid young sailors from having fun racing their Cadets. The Jack Holt design has stood the test of time and is a cost-effective, seaworthy boat that enables youngsters to enjoy extremely close racing, even in wild conditions. Clubs are active around the country each weekend.
Last weekend, Frensham Pond's young Cadet sailors enjoyed being coached by non-other than Nick Craig, local sailing superstar and former Yachtsman of the Year. Nick himself started sailing in a Cadet at Frensham Pond so it is great that he can held this generation of youngsters benefit from his experience.
Nick's input and advice was welcomed in the briefing room and on the race course by the fleet of over 30 sailors as they raced and survived (well, nearly) the 40 knot squalls, all arriving back on shore with huge grins.
At Alton Water in Suffolk, the combined Cadet fleets from the East Coast continued to turn out in good numbers whatever the weather to race keenly in the winter series.
On witnessing the sailing at Frensham Pond, Class Chairman Andy Shorrock commented, "it is terrific to see these youngsters having fun and racing hard in their Cadets in whatever conditions are thrown at them. Thanks to Nick Craig for his specific advice to each Cadet on the water. Learning from the best and having fun at the same time – what could be better?"
All the teams appear to be working hard through the winter determined to take one of the 10 places of the GBR Cadet team that will take part in the Cadet World Championships, to be held at Weymouth & Portland Sailing Academy from 14th – 22nd August. An open event (the promotional championship) will be held alongside the Worlds so that all youngsters can join the international fun and adventure of what being part of the Cadet family is all about.